I guess that I am reading your post a little different.

If you are asking if your analysis of how to respond to a potential threat is out of line, I don't believe that it is.

As I read it, you weren't planning on shooting the skunk unless it acted aggressively and given the possibility of being bitten by a rabid animal, I think your potential plan of action was reasonable. In that light, it seems more like situational awareness and a rational, well thought out plan of action should the need arise.

Really no different than driving and observing that the person in the car next to you is texting or is otherwise distracted and therefore poses a potential threat that you have to be ready to react to.

IMO, you need to be aware of what is going on around you at all times, not paranoid, just aware.

Bill

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